Article by
Barbados Today

Published on
July 27, 2016

It’s time for Pan Africanist and social activist Israel Lovell to be made a National Hero, says General Secretary of the Pan African Coalition Organisation David Denny.

He has called for Lovell to be honoured for his contribution to the development of Barbados and the fight for freedom.

Denny was speaking at a Memorial Service for Israel Lovell held at the St George Parish Church as part of activities recognizing A Day of National Significance in Barbados. The small gathering was made up of a few supporters of the Pan Africanist movement as well as members of Lovell’s family.

Israel Lovell’s Head Stone at his grave.

Lovell, who is best known for his active participation in the social revolution of 1937, can be best identified as one of the region’s freedom fighters. His name has been associated with those of Marcus Garvey and Clement Payne throughout history as a symbol of his role and importance in Caribbean history.

Denny was joined by a number of Pan Africanists, including Member of Parliament Trevor Prescod and Dr Rodney Worrell, lecturer at the University of the West Indies, in highlighting Lovell’s contribution.

From left, Pan Africanists Babatifase Somorin, Trevor Prescod, Umfar Wells, David Denny and Dr Rodney Worrell at Israel Lovell’s graveside singing the Ethiopian Anthem.From left, Pan Africanists Babatifase Somorin, Trevor Prescod, David Denny and Imtiaz Ali at Israel Lovell’s graveside.Today’s gathering was made up of a few supporters of the Pan Africanist movement, as well as members of Israel Lovell’s family.

However, Denny warned that they were no longer begging Government to acknowledge Lovell’s contribution but would composing a proposition “demanding” that he was recognized in the right way for what he has done for Barbados.

He was equally insistent that Lovell should be listed among the National Heroes of Barbados.

A journal written by Dr Worrell on the life and struggles of Israel Lovell as well as his contribution to Caribbean freedom is due to be released in the coming months.